How Much Do CNAs Make?The amount that you can expect to make as a certified nurses assistant will vary based on that state you live in, and the type of health care facility that you work at. Other factors also come into play like the amount of experience you have in the health care industry, and your focus area of study.

You should also be sure to stay updated on current industry trends, since that passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act combined with the aging baby boomer population have created a serious uptick in the demand for qualified healthcare workers. This increase demand is likely going to mean that employers will be willing to pay more for qualified professionals who have a proven track record of excellence within the industry.

One average you can expect to earn somewhere in the range of $12 to $16 per hour. that's a fairly livable wage when you consider that all you need in order to get started as a CNA is a high school diploma or equivalent, and certification via coursework that typically takes about 30 to 45 days to complete.

Once you're working as a nursing assistant you'll be making enough money to meet your monthly expenses, which can then allow you to take additional college coursework in order to become a nurse or other similar more advanced position. It's also important to note that many employers have tuition assistant or reimbursement programs, so check with yours to ensure that you're not leaving a pretty descent sized chunk of cash on the table.

Nurses and nursing assistants are one of the most in demand healthcare professions. That being said, the entire industry is experiencing growth year over year that is far beyond the growth for careers in other industries.